With its 50 mountain lodges topped with thatch roofing, Phu Chaisai Resort is the perfect retreat for a getaway to Chiang Rai or as a starting point for a road trip through the Golden Triangle. Here's what makes this hotel stand out.

Phu Chaisai Resort Spa: 50 luxury cottages nestled in the mountainous highlands of Chiang Rai

Dreaming of a mountain chalet for a honeymoon or a relaxing weekend in Chiang Rai? Look no further! Phu Chaisai Resort Spa is exactly what you need. A blend of high-end bamboo cottages and the welcoming natural beauty of northern Thailand. From their private balconies, guests enjoy sweeping views of mountains, tea fields and fragrant rose gardens. Thai spirit shines through in every detail of the accommodation, from crisp white linens and wood paneling to spa and yoga facilities. Step out of your cottage and stroll through the garden pathways. Visit the orchard planted with fruits and aromatic herbs that supply the restaurant. For a genuine return to nature or for a peaceful vacation in traditionally-inspired lodging, it's hard to beat Phu Chaisai Resort Spa!

Locating the hotel

Staying at Phu Chaisai Resort Spa puts you near countless points of interest in Chiang Rai: the Buddhist temple Tham Phra Acha Thong is just 3 km away and Choui Fong tea farm is 7 km away. The resort is nestled in the misty forests of Mae Chan, a humble hill village near Mae Salong. Arriving by air? Expect a 38 km journey from Chiang Rai airport to the resort. A shuttle service is available upon request to ease your airport-to-hotel transfer.

For a stay at a 4-star spa hotel in the heart of Chiang Rai, note this address: 388 Moo4, Mae Salong Nai, Mae Chan, Chiang Rai, 57110 Mae Salong Nai, Thailand.

Hotel rooms and suites

Guests will settle comfortably into these mountain lodges with thatched roofs and teak plank walls. Each room features a King Size bed, private bathroom and terrace with clear views over the hillside. Tea and coffee service add extra comfort. To truly disconnect from the outside world, there's no flat-screen television or alarm clock—the focus is on connecting with nature.

Accommodation options are varied: the 65 m² Romantic Suite, a perfect lovers' nest; two cottages with private pools (75 m² and 110 m²), distinguished by their circular design; the ground-floor Boutique Cottage; the 85 m² family chalet sleeping up to 5 guests; mountain chalets on the ground floor; high mountain chalets with private covered terrace.

Attractions near the hotel

Wander freely through the surrounding forests. Horses are available free of charge for riding excursions.

Don't miss Wat Tham Phra Acha Thong, a celebrated Buddhist sanctuary in the area. Each morning, monks arrive on horseback to humbly collect alms from local residents.

Visit Thoi Fong tea estate. Explore Doi Tung summer palace and its magnificent gardens, which once housed a Thai princess. Continue your exploration at the Chinese quarter of Mae Salong.

If you plan to tour Chiang Rai city center, don't overlook the White Temple, built by Thailand's greatest contemporary painter, and the Black House. Also admire the statue of King Mengrai, representing the city's founder.

Enjoy a host of leisure facilities

Aware that recreation contributes to a successful stay, the hotel management has put together a rich program of recreational and sporting activities:

• Thai cooking classes;

• Horseback riding excursions nearby;

• Yoga classes to unlock mindfulness and relieve stress;

• Your stay would be incomplete without a spa experience or a dip in the hotel's infinity pool.

Editorial Verdict

• Phu Chaisai Resort Spa appeals to travelers drawn to responsible tourism: sustainability, immersion over consumption, supporting the local economy;

• While luxury rarely aligns with ecology, this hotel has risen to the challenge admirably. It's a delight to find European-standard facilities in mountain chalets with thatched roofs. Bravo! We highly recommend this hotel.